Feeding Does Matter

In this episode, Emory Center for Ethics Director, John Lysaker brings an ethical lens to feeding care. From navigating autonomy to embracing the iterative nature of treatment, this conversation challenges us to think more deeply about how care is experienced, not just delivered. The discussion also highlights the Center for Feeding Ethics, a new initiative from Feeding Matters created in collaboration with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to advance ethical standards in feeding care. The Center for Feeding Ethics will engage clinicians, researchers, individuals with lived experience, and advocates in shaping the future of ethical feeding care. If you are interested in contributing to this work, we invite you to complete the Interest Form. Learn more about the Center for Feeding Ethics.

In this episode, Dr. Jaime Phelan, MD shares his journey with Feeding Matters and explores how feeding disorder terminology, the recognition of PFD as a diagnosis, and collaborative, family-centered care are shaping support for families

In honor of Autism Acceptance Month, this episode explores what it means to embrace neurodiversity at home and in the community. We discuss supporting families, balancing therapy and daily life, choosing the right school environment, and offering practical, compassionate guidance for caregivers and professionals alike.

Jaclyn Pederson and Cuyler Romeo, Feeding Matters' Director of Strategic Initiatives, discuss the importance of consensus building, focusing on their recent work and the development of inclusive, effective principles and practices.

In this episode Jinhee Park, Ph.D., RN, shares how research, clinical expertise, and compassionate care come together to improve feeding outcomes for our most vulnerable infants. From early questions in the NICU to innovative tools and approaches.

Yev Veverka, PhD, BCBA-D shares her journey into pediatric feeding support, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, family-centered care, and capacity building in the field. She discusses how behavioral science can be integrated compassionately and responsibly to improve feeding outcomes for children.

Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters, shares updates on the organization's recent activities, upcoming events, and strategic initiatives, emphasizing community involvement and progress in feeding disorder research and advocacy.

This episode features the co-chairs of the International PFD Conference, Kristen M. West Ed.D. CCC-SLP and Pamela Knight, Parent Advocate, MPH, EMT, discussing their journeys, the importance of family voices in pediatric feeding, and the evolution of the field. They share insights on conference planning, balancing professional and human perspectives, and the future of pediatric feeding.

In this episode of the Feeding Does Matter, pediatric dietitian and @thefamilynutritionist Alexandra Turnbull shares insights from her work in pediatric and school nutrition, as well as her experience engaging an online community of parents. She discusses how language, mindset, and expectations shape the feeding experience, offering practical ways to reframe feeding challenges and navigate parental guilt. The conversation highlights the importance of individualized care and taking a compassionate, long-term approach to building sustainable feeding practices.

Celebrating 20 years of Feeding Matters with Carol Elliot, BS, OTR/L and Elizabeth (Betsy) Clawson, MS, PhD, LCP, HSPP 

Celebrating 20 years of Feeding Matters with Erin Ross, PhD, CCC-SLP, CLC. Dr. Ross shares her stories behind the movement.

Celebrating 20 years of Feeding Matters with Matthew Abrams, MD. Dr. Abrams shares his stories behind the movement.

In this episode of Feeding Does Matter, hosts Jaclyn Pederson and Hayley Estrem discuss the challenges faced by families and professionals in the feeding field during high anxiety times. They are joined by Dr. Anka Roberto, who shares practical strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and mental health. The conversation covers topics such as parenting, mindfulness, self-care techniques, the importance of sleep hygiene, and setting boundaries. Dr. Roberto also introduces a mindfulness exercise called the 'Container Exercise' to help listeners manage their thoughts and emotions effectively.

Host Jaclyn Pederson sits down with Jen Lambert, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Feeding Matters, to talk about the power of local community councils and what’s ahead for the Shannon Goldwater Summit for Change watch parties. Join or Start a Feeding Matters Community Council Learn more about the local Shannon Goldwater Summit for Change watch parties.

Celebrating 20 years of Feeding Matters with Mary Beth Feuling, MS, RD, CD. Mary Beth shares her stories behind the movement.

Celebrating 20 years of Feeding Matters with Kay Toomey, PhD. Dr. Toomey shares her stories behind the movement.

In this episode of Feeding Does Matters, co-host Dr. Hayley Estrum walks down memory lane, reflecting on her earliest involvement with Feeding Matters when it was still known as Popsicle.

In this episode host and CEO of Feeding Matters, Jaclyn Pederson, shares an inside look at what’s ahead in 2026 - a milestone year marking the organization’s 20th anniversary. She shares how Feeding Matters is building momentum through expanded programs, new educational resources, and meaningful opportunities for families, professionals, and advocates. As Feeding Matters builds toward a celebration week in October, this episode underscores how Feeding Matters is honoring two decades of impact while looking ahead to the future of feeding development.

ICYMI: Jaclyn and Hayley welcome ARFID to PFD awareness month with an engaging conversation with Dr. Jenny Thomas, a leading expert in ARFID, discussing its definition, impact, and the evolution of understanding around it. They address common myths and the differences between picky eating and ARFID. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration between feeding and eating disorder fields and highlights future research directions to better support affected individuals and families.

ICYMI: In this episode of Feeding Does Matter, four of the authors (including our hosts) of the consensus paper on the diagnostic overlap and distinction for pediatric feeding disorder and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder discuss their thoughts on the 10 consensus statements, the importance of accurate diagnosis, and the need for collaboration and a common language in the field.  Guests: Cuyler Romeo and William Sharp This consensus paper is published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders and is available via open access, made possible by the generous donors of Feeding Matters. View Consensus Paper

ICYMI: In this conversation, guest Heather Goettsch shares her personal journey, detailing the challenges she faced in advocating for her child's needs. She emphasizes the importance of small victories in the journey of feeding therapy and the value of community support through organizations like Feeding Matters. Heather discusses her involvement in the family-centered pediatric feeding disorder research consortium and concludes with reflections on the human aspect of research and the dedication required to drive change in the field.

In this year-end episode of Feeding Does Matter, hosts Hayley Estrem and Jaclyn Pederson delve into the challenges and triumphs of the past year for Feeding Matters. They discuss the importance of community support, the impact of their initiatives, and the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and resources for feeding differences and disorders.

In this episode, you’ll sit in on a meeting of the Feeding Matters Research Initiatives Task Force (including Feeding Does Matter hosts Jaclyn Pederson and Hayley Estrem) as William Sharp, PhD, reflects on his recent presentation on feeding challenges in children with autism for TEACCH. The group also dives into the current realities of school cafeterias and explores why anorexia-based treatment frameworks have historically been applied to ARFID. Guests on this episode: Cuyler Romeo, MOT, OTR/L, SCFES, IBCLC Meg Simione, PhD, CCC-SLP Rachel Conrad, MA, CCC-SLP

ICYMI: In this episode, Darlena Birch from the National WIC Association discusses the WIC program, the importance of nutrition education, and the various components of WIC services. She highlights the challenges families face in accessing resources, particularly those with pediatric feeding disorders and food allergies. (This episode originally posted January 14, 2025)

Host Jaclyn Pederson interviews co-host, Hayley Estrem and Feeding Matters’ Person and Family-Centered Feeding Research Consortium Chair, Rachel Conrad. Hayley and Rachel share their experiences from the PCORI Annual Meeting, insights gained from their poster session, and the importance of creating a safe space for patient partners in research. The Feeding Matters Family-Centered PFD Research Consortium launch was partially funded through a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute® (PCORI®) Eugene Washington PCORI Engagement Award (EACB-31710).

Guests Dr. Pamela Dodrill and Dr. Memorie Gosa discuss the Functional Oral Intake Scale Pediatric (FOIS-P) tool for assessment and tracking of feeding progress in children, the role of telehealth in bridging the gap between hospital and home care, and the importance of mentorship in developing skilled clinicians. More information on FOIS-P.

Host Jaclyn Pederson and Feeding Matters Senior Program Manager, Heidi Van der Molen discuss the challenges families face when food access is uncertain, especially for those navigating feeding disorders and differences. They share how the community has come together to help launch a new Food Access Resources page with national, state, and local links to help families find the support they need. Visit: itsnotpickyeating.org/food-access-resources

This episode features the recent Feeding Alliance Learning Lounge on the PFD & ARFID School Toolkit. Jennifer Eggert, M.S., CCC-SLP, C/NDT, and Dr. Nikhila Raol, MD, MPH, discuss the often-overlooked challenges children with feeding differences face in school settings. They share insights into how the toolkit was developed to empower families, educators, and healthcare professionals with practical strategies and resources; and emphasize the key rights families should understand when advocating for their child’s needs.

In this episode of Feeding Does Matter, host Jaclyn Pederson and guest Courtney Bliss, a Pediatric Registered Dietitian, discuss the challenges families with children who have feeding differences face during holiday gatherings. Courtney shares practical strategies for managing food anxiety, communicating needs with family members, and creating a supportive environment for children during these events. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparation, reflection on past experiences, and the need for open communication with loved ones to ensure a positive mealtime experience.

In this episode hosts Jaclyn Pederson and Hayley Estrem talk with Rhonda Anderson, a distinguished nursing leader and healthcare advocate. They discuss the evolution of care for children with feeding disorders, moving from awareness to action through a lifespan and family-centered approach, the power of listening to families, and how technology and interprofessional collaboration are transforming feeding disorder care.

In this episode of Feeding Does Matter, host Jaclyn Pederson speaks with Denise Hoffman, a mother and occupational therapist, about her personal journey with feeding challenges faced by her son, who was born premature and is now 24 years old. They discuss the impact of personal experience on professional practice, supporting a young adult navigating  the complexities of feeding disorders and mental health challenges, and the need for advocacy and self-advocacy.

In this special one-year anniversary episode of Feeding Matters, hosts Jaclyn Pederson and Hayley Estrem celebrate one year of impactful conversations centered around patient and family-centered care in the context of feeding differences and disorders. They are joined by leaders from the Family-Centered PFD Research Consortium to discuss the consortium's formation, the importance of lived experiences in research, and the collaborative efforts to prioritize research that truly reflects the needs of families. The episode highlights the challenges faced in healthcare systems, the emotional journey of research prioritization, and the future direction of the consortium as they aim to redefine care practices and ensure that families are at the forefront of research initiatives.

Host Jaclyn Pederson speaks with Dr. Lisa Bienstock, a pediatric dentist and event chair for Feeding Matters' upcoming Feed the Cause signature event and fundraiser. They discuss the importance of positive dental experiences for children, especially those with feeding differences. Dr. Bienstock shares her journey into pediatric dentistry, emphasizing the need for early dental visits and collaboration among healthcare professionals.

In this episode, guest Talia Laughter has a heartfelt conversation about her family's journey with feeding challenges, particularly focusing on her daughter who was born with Down syndrome. Talia recounts the struggles they faced, including hospitalizations, feeding therapy, and the importance of advocacy and community support.

Guest Dr. Amy Delaney shares insights on texture analysis and the development of a texture framework to standardize feeding assessment practices. Dr. Delaney also discusses the importance of research in understanding feeding development, the need for normative data in the field, and the significance of guidelines for caregivers and pediatricians.

Dr. Jeanne Marshall, a speech pathologist and researcher specializing in pediatric feeding disorders, discusses her journey into the field, her work at the Tucker Box Feeding Research Lab, and the various research projects aimed at improving preventative care and diagnostics in pediatric feeding disorders. The discussion also highlights the importance of family-centered research, the challenges of implementing research findings into practice, and the need for clearer guidelines in the field. 

Hosts Jaclyn Pederson and Hayley Estrem reflect on the live event for the Feeding & Eating Psychology Summit, discussing key takeaways such as, the need for individualized care, and the significance of language in treatment. They emphasize breaking down silos between different fields and fostering community engagement to improve research and support for families. The discussion also touches on ethical considerations in feeding care and the necessity of looking beyond traditional growth metrics to assess children's feeding development. Missed the live Summit? You can still register and access every session and lived experience presentations on-demand Sept 8-Oct 31. Eligible on-demand attendees can earn 6.5 hours of continuing education credit. Register

2025 Psych Summit Session: Reduction in Feeding Problems Following a 12-Week Interdisciplinary Group Feeding Intervention presented by Olivia Hsin, PhD; Ayala Ben-Tall, PhD. During this Psych Summit Session Sneak Peek episode of Feeding Does Matter, Olivia Hsin and Ayala Ben-Tall discuss feeding psychology and the importance of interdisciplinary approaches. On August 22, the Feeding + Eating Psychology Summit: PFD & ARFID Evidence-based Interventions for Key Developmental Stages explores psychological management strategies for PFD and ARFID across developmental stages. Experts will present evidence-based interventions or concepts tailored to key stages in a child’s development, highlighting how feeding skill development and cognitive maturity influence treatment planning. Through lived experience interviews and a facilitated Q&A, participants will gain deeper insight into how psychological approaches must adapt as feeding abilities and cognitive function evolves over time. Learn More

2025 Psych Summit Session: Food Allergy and ARFID: An underrecognized clinical complication and conceptual treatment framework presented by Kaitlin B. Proctor, PhD, ABPP. During this Psych Summit Session Sneak Peek episode of Feeding Does Matter, Kaitlin Proctor discusses the complexities of feeding issues, particularly in relation to ARFID and food allergies. On August 22, the Feeding + Eating Psychology Summit: PFD & ARFID Evidence-based Interventions for Key Developmental Stages explores psychological management strategies for PFD and ARFID across developmental stages. Experts will present evidence-based interventions or concepts tailored to key stages in a child’s development, highlighting how feeding skill development and cognitive maturity influence treatment planning. Through lived experience interviews and a facilitated Q&A, participants will gain deeper insight into how psychological approaches must adapt as feeding abilities and cognitive function evolves over time. Learn More

2025 Psych Summit Micro Keynotes: Preparing for NICU Discharge presented by Vincent C. Smith, MD, MPH, and First Things First in Feeding Therapy: Prioritizing Curiosity and Safety presented by Marsha Dunn Klein, OTR/L, MEd FAOTA. During this Psych Summit Session Sneak Peak episode of Feeding Does Matter, Vincent C. Smith and Marsh Dunn Klein discuss the importance of NICU discharge preparation and respecting the “no” in mealtime interactions. On August 22, the Feeding + Eating Psychology Summit: PFD & ARFID Evidence-based Interventions for Key Developmental Stages explores psychological management strategies for PFD and ARFID across developmental stages. Experts will present evidence-based interventions or concepts tailored to key stages in a child’s development, highlighting how feeding skill development and cognitive maturity influence treatment planning. Through lived experience interviews and a facilitated Q&A, participants will gain deeper insight into how psychological approaches must adapt as feeding abilities and cognitive function evolves over time. Learn More

2025 Psych Summit Session: Responsive Feeding Therapy for Children with Paediatric Feeding Disorder: Research Insights and Clinical Applications presented by Valerie Gent, BSpPath, MMedRes, PhD candidate and Dr. Jeanne Marshall, BSpPath, PhD During this Psych Summit Session Sneak Peek episode of Feeding Does Matter, Valerie Gent and Jeanne Marshall explore the role of responsive feeding therapy in supporting children with pediatric feeding disorders and ARFID. On August 22, the Feeding + Eating Psychology Summit: PFD & ARFID Evidence-based Interventions for Key Developmental Stages explores psychological management strategies for PFD and ARFID across developmental stages. Experts will present evidence-based interventions or concepts tailored to key stages in a child’s development, highlighting how feeding skill development and cognitive maturity influence treatment planning. Through lived experience interviews and a facilitated Q&A, participants will gain deeper insight into how psychological approaches must adapt as feeding abilities and cognitive function evolves over time. Learn More

2025 Psych Summit Session Sneak Peek: Formulation-Driven Treatment Planning for ARFID: A Collaborative, Individualized Framework presented by Amy Talbot, DClinPsy, MSc. During this Psych Summit Session Sneak Peek episode of Feeding Does Matter, Amy Talbot discusses the need for a formulation-driven approach that respects individual differences and fosters collaboration among various disciplines to provide effective care for individuals and families facing feeding challenges. On August 22, the Feeding + Eating Psychology Summit: PFD & ARFID Evidence-based Interventions for Key Developmental Stages explores psychological management strategies for PFD and ARFID across developmental stages. Experts will present evidence-based interventions or concepts tailored to key stages in a child’s development, highlighting how feeding skill development and cognitive maturity influence treatment planning. Through lived experience interviews and a facilitated Q&A, participants will gain deeper insight into how psychological approaches must adapt as feeding abilities and cognitive function evolves over time. Learn More

2025 Psych Summit Session: Building the Foundation: A Holistic, Interdisciplinary Approach to Infant Feeding presented by Natalie Berriz PhD, BCBA and Melissa Andersen, PhD. During this Psych Summit Session Sneak Peak episode of Feeding Does Matter, Natalie Berriz and Melissa Andersen discuss the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration in pediatric feeding, the importance of recognizing feeding as a developmental milestone, and how holistic, family-centered care can help prevent feeding disorders. On August 22, the Feeding + Eating Psychology Summit: PFD & ARFID Evidence-based Interventions for Key Developmental Stages explores psychological management strategies for PFD and ARFID across developmental stages. Experts will present evidence-based interventions or concepts tailored to key stages in a child’s development, highlighting how feeding skill development and cognitive maturity influence treatment planning. Through lived experience interviews and a facilitated Q&A, participants will gain deeper insight into how psychological approaches must adapt as feeding abilities and cognitive function evolves over time. Learn More

2025 Psych Summit Session: Occupational Therapy Supports and Interventions for ARFID presented by Krystin Turner, OTR/L, DHS, SCEFS and Madelyn Duzyk, OTR/L, OTD During this Psych Summit Session Sneak Peak episode of Feeding Does Matter, Krystin Turner and Madelyn Duzyk explore how lived experience informs clinical practice, why multidisciplinary collaboration is essential, and how occupational therapists can support families navigating complex feeding challenges. The conversation also touches on ongoing gaps in research, barriers to education, and the importance of family-centered care, key topics that will be further explored at the summit. On August 22, the 2025 Feeding and Eating Psychology Summit: PFD & ARFID Evidence-based Interventions for Key Developmental Stages explores psychological management strategies for PFD and ARFID across developmental stages. Experts will present evidence-based interventions or concepts tailored to key stages in a child’s development, highlighting how feeding skill development and cognitive maturity influence treatment planning. Through lived experience interviews and a facilitated Q&A, participants will gain deeper insight into how psychological approaches must adapt as feeding abilities and cognitive function evolves over time. Learn More

ICYMI: In this episode of Feeding Does Matter, hosts Jaclyn Pederson and Dr. Hayley Estrem provide a deep dive into the histories of Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) and Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs in diagnosis and treatment. From the impact of terminology on family experiences to the critical role of early identification and intervention, this episode explores how awareness and collaboration across disciplines are key to supporting families facing PFD and ARFID. A thoughtful conversation on the strides made—and the work still needed—in understanding and supporting these complex feeding disorders.

Our guest this episode, Emnet Assefa, discusses her journey raising a child with multiple medical and feeding complexities. She speaks candidly about the emotional toll, delayed diagnoses, and how the G-tube became a turning point for her family.

In this episode, Garrett Barnes shares his family's journey with his daughter Lucy's challenges with eating. He discusses the emotional toll of navigating feeding tubes, the importance of support from organizations like Feeding Matters, and the transition from tube feeding to oral eating.

Dr. Kathleen Knafl, a pioneering researcher and educator, shares her journey into family-centered research and what she’s learned from listening to families. Along with Hayley and Jaclyn, she talks about why the words we use like “burden” or “impact” can make a big difference, how families often see things more hopefully than doctors expect, why the parents voice matters in shaping care, and what it really means to support families.

In this episode of Feeding Does Matter we talk with David Schnitzler, a father of two children with feeding difficulties. We explore the emotional, medical, and day-to-day realities families face when feeding challenges intersect with food allergies. David shares how each child’s feeding experience is unique, why reducing mealtime pressure can support progress, and how feeding therapy demands patience and a long-term perspective. 

In this episode we explore how grassroots efforts can make a big impact. Feeding Matters Community Council leaders, Emily Adams (Ohio), and Stacy Payne (California) discuss how engaging families, healthcare providers, and local leaders can break down stigma, promote early identification, and create real change, one relationship at a time.